When was the expression break a leg first used?

An ironic or non-literal saying of uncertain origin (a dead metaphor), “break a leg” is commonly said to actors and musicians before they go on stage to perform, likely first used in this context in the United States in the 1930s or possibly 1920s, originally documented without specifically theatrical associations.

Why don’t you say good luck to an actor?

A person is never supposed to wish an actor “good luck,” but instead they are supposed to say “Break a leg!” Though it may seem maudlin to do so, many theater folk believe there are mischief-making spirits of the stage who use their magic to force the opposite of what you wish to happen.

Why are you not supposed to wear peacock feathers on stage?

Peacock feathers are generally banned in the theatre due to their history of bringing back luck. It is said that the evil eye in the peacock feather is blamed for bringing destruction to many a theatre production.

Why can’t you say Macbeth in the theater?

Don’t say the ‘M’ word! Saying ‘Macbeth’ in a theatre will immediately bring you bad luck. According to folklore, the play’s history of bad luck began at its very first performance (circa 1606) when the actor scheduled to portray Lady Macbeth died suddenly and Shakespeare was forced to replace him.

Why are you not supposed to whistle in a theatre?

Whistling in the theatre is considered bad luck. This superstition started in the middle of the 1600s when theatrical scenery began to fly. Sailors had extensive knowledge of ropes, rigging and knots and were hired backstage as run crew.

Why is it bad to whistle?

Superstition relating to whistling has been common across cultures. Do it indoors and bring on poverty. Do it at night and attract bad luck, bad things, evil spirits. Transcendental whistling would summon supernatural beings, wild animals, and impact the weather.

What should you not say in theatre?

8 Rules Every Theatre Person Must Follow—Do You Know All of Them?

• Say “break a leg” instead of “good luck.”
• Do not whistle in the theatre.
• Never mention “Macbeth” in a theatre.
• Avoid placing a peacock feather onstage.
• Turn on the ghost light.
• Do not give gifts of flowers before the performance.
• Ban blue onstage.

Why is Macbeth called the Scottish play?

The Scottish play and the Bard’s play are euphemisms for William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. According to a theatrical superstition, called the Scottish curse, speaking the name Macbeth inside a theatre, other than as called for in the script while rehearsing or performing, will cause disaster.